On July 13, 2026, François Bonnardel, a cabinet minister in the Coalition Avenir Québec government and the elected member for the Granby riding, announced that he will not run in this year's provincial election. He said he will remain the Member of the National Assembly for Granby until the conclusion of his current mandate, after which he will retire from political life.
Bonnardel’s statement came during a press briefing in Granby, where he confirmed his decision to step away from electoral politics. By choosing not to seek re‑election, he will vacate his seat at the end of the legislative term, opening the way for a new candidate to contest the riding in the upcoming vote.
As a member of the Coalition Avenir Québec, Bonnardel has held a cabinet portfolio while representing Granby in the National Assembly. His announcement adds to the list of incumbents who have decided not to stand for re‑election ahead of the provincial campaign. The timing of his retirement aligns with the broader preparation for the election, though no further details about his successor or the impact on the party’s slate were provided.
The decision marks the conclusion of Bonnardel’s tenure in provincial politics, a role he has fulfilled while serving both as a minister and as the voice for Granby residents. He indicated that he will continue to fulfill his responsibilities to his constituents until the official end of his term, ensuring a smooth transition for the riding.
The Coalition Avenir Québec has not released a statement on how the vacancy will be filled or on any potential endorsements for the next candidate in Granby. Voters in the riding will learn of the party’s chosen representative as the election campaign unfolds.
Bonnardel’s retirement will be noted as part of the broader changes shaping the political landscape ahead of the upcoming provincial election.